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Canada helps Syrians affected by ongoing conflict

January 30, 2013 - Canada is supporting humanitarian efforts to meet immediate emergency needs—including food, water, shelter, medical care and safety—of people affected by the Syrian crisis, announced the Honourable Julian Fantino, Minister of International Cooperation. Canada, through the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA), will continue to support humanitarian partners to help people affected by the Syrian crisis, particularly those who have fled to neighbouring countries such as Jordan.

"We are deeply concerned with the ongoing violence in Syria," said Minister Fantino. "Canada's support is saving lives and addressing the most acute needs of those affected by the Syrian crisis."

Since early 2011, more than 700,000 people have fled the violence in Syria due to the deteriorating humanitarian situation. It is estimated that 60,000 people have died in the ongoing conflict, with thousands more wounded. According to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs Syrian, up to four million people inside Syria, including two million who are internally displaced, are in need of humanitarian assistance.

Today's announcement of an additional $25 million brings Canada's total humanitarian response since January 2012 to over $48 million in support of those affected by the Syrian crisis. This assistance will be delivered through Canadian humanitarian organizations and international agencies. Minister Fantino made this announcement at the first High-Level International Humanitarian Pledging Conference for Syria, held in Kuwait City, Kuwait.

"We call for all donors to follow through on their pledges and act on their humanitarian commitments", concluded Minister Fantino. "To ensure the ongoing effectiveness of humanitarian assistance during this evolving crisis, Canada, along with the international community, continues to call for full, safe and unhindered humanitarian access to those in need."

The Government of Canada will continue to monitor the situation and respond further, as appropriate.